I am Dáphine Carvalho Santos, I am 24 years old, I am Biologist, graduated in Biological Science and post graduated in Project Management and I live in Minas Gerais, Brazil.I participated in Rotary's NGSE program and I travelled to Australia to have a complete experience about Australian culture and value, also, regarding the practice of work in Biology abroad.

What does a drummer, a classical pianist, a flautist, a saxophonist, a jazz pianist and a violinist have in common? They are all young people from the Belmont area who received a Morton Family Music Award 2018. The Rotary Club of Belmont Morton Family Music Award celebrated 30 years of awarding young people for their music ability.

These awards were suggested when a bequest from the Morton Family was received by the Rotary Club of Belmont to support charities.

Warners Bay Landcare group were joined by eight members from the Rotary Club of Warners Bay for their planting day on 13 April at James Street Landcare site. The Rotary Club had contacted Warners Bay Landcare to help fulfil the goal of Rotary International President Ian Riseley for every Rotary member to plant a tree by Earth Day on 22nd April.

Project "Red Socks" has been taken on board by The District 9670 Community Service Committee to aid in the early prevention of prostate cancer in men. The aim of the project is to raise funds to aid further prostate cancer research.

The Rotary Club of Warners Bay celebrated a couple of highlights during District Governor Helen Ryan’s official visit. Lyn Thorpe introduced the ROMAC patient Sioeli Moimoi and his mum Elizabeth from Tonga.

Australian Rotary Health Representative Chris Bartlett, organised a special ARH dinner at Maitland City Bowling Club on Wednesday night. Special Guest speaker was Greg Ross, Chairman of the Board of ARH, with ARH Director Brian Beesley ( Gloucester Rotary Club) the MC for the evening.

Nearly 70 Rotarians were present, and 8 club’s represented, including our Club, through Chris Bartlett and Judi Priestley, DG Helen and Mike, ARH Life member Don Whatham and Fiona and PP Judy and Bob Mitchell.

A very warm day at Rathmines where Rotary and ShelterBox were well represented. The flying displays were top class. Crowds estimate would be in excess 10,000 people. Some pictures of the day including Morisset Rotarians and their Christmas Trailer raffle. Sadly, the Catalina was not able to land as it had only one engine operational, so flew on to Rutherford for repairs.

The Rotary 9670 District Leadership Directory is available for download in PDF format. The directory is only available if you are registered and have logged into the district website members only area.

Following the extensive bushfires which have occurred in central western NSW recently, the Rotary Club of Mudgee and Mudgee Sunrise have jointly sponsored and established a fund to assist individuals and families suffering significant loss and distress caused by the fires.

Recently, Troy Grant, State Member for Dubbo, and Mark Coulton, Federal Member of Parkes, announced that with their combined contributions, Dubbo will receive an integrated Cancer Centre, based at Dubbo Base Hospital, valued at $50 million. It was part of Coulton’s election promise to commit $25 million if the coalition won and then Mr Grant stated that State will chip in the other half.

Australian Rotarian Stephanie Woollard has been recognised on the global stage with a prestigious Rotary Responsible Business Award. Stephanie is one of only six honorees worldwide, applauded for her groundbreaking work establishing the Seven Women project, which supports disabled women in Nepal. The presentation of the awards formed the centerpiece of Rotary Day at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Applications for the Team Leader and four Team Members have now Closed. The team selection process will be finalised by 30 October 2016....watch this space!

Clubs wishing to host the inbound team from D4905 in Argentina are requested to submit their expression of interest by 14 October 2016 to the GSE Chair, Christine Roach via Email: gse@rotary9670.org.au

At the recent District Conference, it was announced that the District Governor for 2018-19 would be Brian Coffey from the Rotary Club of East Maitland. Here we get to know who he and his wife, Carol is.

Another successful District Conference is done and dusted with majority of clubs represented. Here is the summary from Conference Chair, Trevor Lynch.If you didn't get a chance to attend, you have missed out on an enjoyable weekend.

A huge coup for Australians recently, was the announcement that Ian H S Riseley, from the Rotary Club of Sandringham, in Victoria, being selected as the Rotary International President for 2017-18 if there are no challenges for the position.

The District Governors of Australia, including District Governor (DG) Adrian Roach, have agreed to support a National Fundraising appeal for those people affected by Cyclone Winston in Fiji. This is a National Rotary Australian World Community Service (RAWCS) Project.

After the devastation that the cyclone caused in Fiji, our Shelterbox representatives, Peter and Lorraine Croft, have been inundated with phone calls from Rotarians and the public on how they can help the nation.

After the success of the lantern walk last year to Light Up Rotary, the lantern walk is back and will be held on Saturday 13 February 2016 from 4pm with proceeds going to the Mission to Seafarers and the Newcastle Maritime Centre.

Do you want to attend the 2016 Rotary International Conference in Seoul with a group of fellow Rotarians from the District? Then check out the following deal the District's Convention Co-ordinator Graeme Hooper has managed to source.

At the International Assembly in San Diego, USA, in front of the incoming District Governors, Rotary International President-Elect John F Germ (from the Rotary Club of Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA), announced his theme for the 2016-17 year.

District 9670 is priviledged to be hosting the Eastern Region RaWCS (Rotary Australia World Community Service) Conference at the Sinclairs Function Centre in Warners Bay on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 November 2015.

District Governor Adrian was been busy in these first 3 months of his year visiting Clubs around the District. Most recently he has been to a number of Clubs west of the divide and reports that they are indeed fabulous supporters and activists in their communities. Even though some may be small in member numbers, but they are big of heart and action.

The District has recently said farewell to Charlotte (Charlie) Wheatley - a delightful young lady from District 1070 in Oxfordshire, UK. Charlie is pictured with her work colleague and her host family.

Due to the limited number of applicants for team members to be a part of the 2016 Rotary Group Study Exchange (GSE) to District 3460 to Taiwan, the closing date for applications have been extended to 4 September 2016.

Mrs Margie Abbott, wife of Prime Minister Mr Tony Abbott has accepted a position of Patron with Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children (ROMAC). Mrs Abbott was adamant that she didn’t want to be a Patron in name only and insisted that we engage her in ROMAC’s activities as soon as possible. ROMAC accepted her generous offer and she has already been engaged in her first duty - Mrs Abbott met a child in Canberra with Senior Australian of the year for the ACT Sandra Malhberg.

District 9670 Model United Nation Assembly (MUNA) was held at Muswellbrook Council Chambers on Saturday 23 May. It is a special event as the young people from high schools that are sponsored by a local Rotary Club have the opportunity to debate resolutions that are focussed on contemporary international issues. The counsellors prepare, advise and support the students prior to and during the event. In 2015, fifteen teams from fourteen schools competed for two awards.

With the extent of the disaster becoming more apparent by the day Peter and Lorraine Croft are taking donations for Shelterbox and would strongly urge clubs to dig deep as the situation over there is quite devastating. They would really like to thank the Clubs who have already donated.

Following is the latest update from Mike Greenslade, General Manager, ShelterBox Australia:

Information correct as of Monday 05 May, 2015:

Over the weekend a series of partnerships were agreed for 500 (UN specification) tents each to be deployed with ACTED, IOM and Handicap International alongside an additional 2,736 shelter kits and 1,754 ShelterBoxes for use by our own teams too.

The District has just said farewell to Kate Reinhart, a delightful young lady from District 6330 in Ontario Canada. Kate is pictured under the tree planted by Paul Harris all those years ago in Civic Park Newcastle.

On behalf of District Governor Gerard we pass on our thoughts to all Rotarians who are having difficulty with the recent storms in the Hunter. It is times like these that Rotarians truly support each other.

Over the last two years, Rotarians have been asking, when is another National Rotary Success Conference going to be held. The answer is - it is going to happen this September and in District 9710! They urge us to register now for what is sure to be a great conference.

In three years’ time, 50% of your contribution to the Annual Fund of The Rotary Foundation comes back to your District as DDF (District Designated Fund). These funds then enable the Clubs in your District to support both local and international projects. That’s right; you can spend Rotary Foundation funds in your local community.

During the 2015 Rotary District Conference in Forster, several Rotary clubs were congratulated and presented with awards for their contributions in helping to combat polio globally during their "Hit Polio For Six" campaign in 2013-14.

The Group Study Exchange (GSE) team from District 1900 (Germany), consisting of Karl Rabb (team leader), Jana Haase, Felix Harms, Anna Schewe, and Kerstin Schroder, have wrapped up their tour of District 9670 and have arrived back in their respected home towns safely.

International disaster relief agency, ShelterBox is mobilising aid and a Response Team from Australia and new Zealand as the Pacific paradise of Vanuatu counts the awful cost of Cyclone Pam

As news emerges of the scale of devastation caused by one of the worst Pacific storms ever recorded, with many of Vanuatu’s 260,000 population now said to be homeless, emergency shelter experts, ShelterBox have this morning agreed plans for aid distribution with colleague charity CARE International.

This month has shaped up to be one of the most exciting months in District 9670 Rotary! With a variety of events showcasing the diverse work that Rotary does, District Governor Gerard McMillan updates us on the excitement that has swept across District 9670 this month. With our District Conference looming there is even more fun in store this month...

Rotary Club of Williamtown member Steve Carroll has started an incredible journey - to ride around Australia and raise funds for Rotarians Against Malaria (RAMS), a Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) project.

This next month is shaping up to be one of the most exciting months in D9670 Rotary...so hang on for the ride! With various events showcasing the diverse work that Rotary does, District Governor Gerard McMillan updates us on the excitement sweeping across D9670 with our Conference looming, new clubs chartering and changes on the way.

Each year, the partner of the District Governor selects an organisation or project which they work on, gaining awareness and trying to raise funds for the cause, in that year. This year, Yvonne Palmer would like to raise funds and awareness for the District 9670 MHERV van.

More fabulous speakers have been lined up for our upcoming District Conference in Forster on March 20 to 22 including Lis Gerrard and District Governor of District 1900 (Germany) Hans von Dewall. Don't forget to register to hear these and our many other speakers.

District 9670 will have the honor in welcoming and meeting Past District Governor (PDG) Kamal Sanghvi and his partner Sonal, all the way from India. He will be Rotary International President, Gary C.K. Huang's Representative at our upcoming District Conference on Friday 20 to Sunday 22 March in Forster.

With the conference looming closer, the various accommodation places in Forster are fast filling up. If you are planning to attend the conference, and haven't arranged where you will be staying, it might be an idea to do quickly. We have found some accommodation places for you to investigate.

For a bit of fun at this years Conference, those rotarians who are travelling to Forster in their caravans, could have the opportunity to be the inaugural winner of the "Best Dressed" Caravan Competition.

The Rotary District Conference is an excellent opportunity to share experience with others who provide "Service Above Self". This years Rotary District Conference, titled "Waves of Change, Oceans of Opportunity, will be held in Forster on Friday 20 to Sunday 22 March, and it is getting closer.

Notice is given that the Resolutions Session at the 2015 District Conference will be held on Saturday 21st March 2015 commencing at 2pm at Club Forster.

Should any member, i.e. club, wish to submit a resolution for consideration at this session, then it must be received by the District Secretary by Friday 6th February 2015. This is to enable the other members(clubs) in the District time to consider what is being proposed.

With Christmas arriving all to fast and 2014 coming to a close, District Governor Gerard McMillan,reflects on the last six months of D9670. Having visited all of the Clubs far and wide across the District now, DG Gerard congratulates all clubs on their diversity and looks forward to an exciting 2015 of growth and fun...

At the Rotary International (RI) Assembly in San Diego, California, USA, and standing in front of the 2015-16 District Governors from around the world, RI President-Elect K.R. "Ravi" Ravindran, announced the theme for his upcoming year.

In October 2014, the Rotary International Board agreed to modify the Rotary International calendar of special observances to highlight the Areas of Focus within the Rotary Foundation. This will come into affect shortly.

The local Rotary Clubs invite you to join in a special event to celebrate Chinese New Year and Light up Newcastle.

We invite you to take part in the inaugural Lantern Walk during Chinese New Year on the evening of Saturday 21st February 2015.

The Lantern Walk has its origin in this year’s Rotary International theme of “Light up Rotary” and the challenge set by the Rotary International President for 2014/15, to engage in a project that involves the whole of the local community.

November is Foundation Month, a time I’d like to reflect on the charity arm of Rotary, its humble beginnings and what it has achieved since its inception almost 100 years ago.

The first donation to the Foundation was back in 1917 of $26.50. Now this would have been a considerable amount at the time but I doubt anyone would have forecast how this first act of generosity would grow into the $1 billion figure it is today.

Such strong support, along with Rotarian involvement worldwide, ensures a secure future for The Rotary Foundation

Five years ago, Rotary International District 9750 (Sydney) initiated the inaugural Inspirational Women’s Awards in our community. The event has increased in popularity each year and now receives considerable support and publicity across the state of New South Wales. Whilst the event began in the Sydney district, it is now supported by all Rotary Districts in NSW and Inner Wheel has enthusiastically joined the group.

Clubs in our District can now become involved by nominating their Inspirational Woman 2015.

The District Governor Gerard McMillan has taken the initiative in introducing an existing, excellent and exciting Rotary program into our District this year – Rotary Peace Fellowships. This program has been in existence for 18 years but this is the first time Rotary District 9670 is being involved. The Rotary Peace Fellowships are fully funded by The Rotary Foundation. The awarding of Fellowships is a very competitive world wide process. Hopefully we will be able to find some suitable applicants who go through a very rigorous selection process on a world wide basis.

Now is time to start looking for Rotary Peace Applicants for the Peace Fellowships.

When its all about getting your name out there, the Rotary Club of RylstoneKandos has done the District proud over October . Assisting with the catering for the town’s centenary, members of the Rotary Club have stepped up to the plate (literally) serving over 1,000 meals to locals and Government officials alike.

This October school holidays, the Rotary Club of Rylstone Kandos rolled-up their sleeves and manned the BBQ at the Rylstone Family Funday. Club member, Elizabeth McKay shares the successes of the day with District 9670 and thanks all the club members for their contribution to making the day such a great success for the local community...

On their first trip outside of Papua New Guinea (PNG) to participate in the District 9670 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) this year were Rebecca Kupil and AndriasOkum from Nundugl, PNG. A Rotary Foundation grant was received to help with airfares and they were sponsored to RYLA by the Wallsend Maryland Club.

RYLA 2014 has just completed and was another great year. The young people who participated demonstrated what great talent we have in our communities. They participated with enthusiasm and commitment to the whole week. In addition to hearing from speakers of great note on many aspects of leadership, they took part in group exercises that they presented, as centre stage, on their graduation night.

MUNA promotes international understanding and goodwill – one of the objects of Rotary International, and was again held in Muswellbrook Council Chambers in May 2014.

MUNA has been held annually since 2002 in 9670, and gives high school students from years 10 to 12 the opportunity to enhance debating skills, appreciate another culture, improve higher order thinking skills and enjoy the company of other students in the district.

After nearly 12 months abroad, D9670’s own Global Grant Scholar, Annelise Bisset updated us on her progress in the UK both in the classroom, with her host Rotary Club and the extracurricular activities she has been involved in. With her research project and dissertation underway, it looks like Annelise’s time abroad is coming to an end.

The 65th Changeover Dinner in May was a significant milestone for the Rylstone Kandos Rotary Club. Helping to mark the occasion along with local Rotary members and family were the Member for Parkes Mark Coulton, who read a message from the Prime Minister, Mr Tony Abbott congratulating the Club, and Member for Hunter Joel Fitzgibbon.

What a joy to be able to read! Not only does reading let us travel to a world of imagination and ‘get lost’ for a period of time but it also allows us to learn, experience different scenarios, different cultures and increase our vocabulary.

Newcastle Sunrise Rotary invites you to attend a fundraising dinner in support of the Weema Child Sacrifice Project in Uganda at 6pm on Wednesday 17th September 2014 in Cooks Hill. The practice of Child Sacrifice should not be allowed to continue but this project helps support the children who have survived such an attack.

A timely reminder that the Group Study Exchange applications to Germany are closing on Friday 22nd August. The team will depart on 30th May 2015. So you need to act fast to secure your place on an experience like no other.

The Group Study Exchange (GSE) program of The Rotary Foundation is a unique cultural and vocational exchange opportunity for young business and professional men and women between the ages of 25 and 40 and in the early years of their professional lives. The program provides travel grants for teams to exchange visits between paired areas in different countries. For approximately 4 weeks, team members experience the host country's institutions and ways of life, observe their own vocations as practiced abroad, develop personal and professional relationships and exchange ideas. Teams are hosted by Rotarian families in the receiving district, and have the opportunity to share a range of experiences with these families.

With 3 GSE participants on the board of the new Rotary Club of Lake Macquarie it was a matter of time before they stepped up to promote the program and experiences that they had on their GSE to other young professional people around the district.

Erin Marney said ‘the club is holding a GSE information session on Wednesday the 30th of July from 6pm at Evolution Advisers Unit 1 B2, 335 Hillsborough Road, Warners Bay. The idea is for GSE hopefuls to learn about the program from those who have been on the most recent exchange and make a decision if it’s something that they would like to do’.

Welcome to the world of Hydroponics where plants are grown in water as opposed to soil. This increasingly popular and exciting way of growing flowers and vegetables has many benefits for the young and old.

For many of us, volunteering is a way of life, but I'm pretty sure that we are all in awe of the commitment required to fulfill the role of District Insurance Officer for 25 years. The commitment and expertise that Newcastle Enterprise Rotarian Brian Vidler has brought to the role was acknowledged with a Paul Harris Fellow pin at the 2014 District Changeover dinner at Singleton.

The design and fabrication of the new Men's Health Education Rural Van lead to Singleton Rotary's newly inducted President Warren Deaves being acknowledged for his contributions by 2013-14 District Governor Brian Atkins at the District Changeover held back in June.

At the recent District Changeover Wallsend-Maryland Rotary's Wilma Simmons was acknowledged by District Governor Brian Atkins with a Paul Harris Fellow pin. “Wilma Simmons is an outstanding example of the remarkable Rotarians we have in our district. It’s hard to just know where to start with Wilma’s rotary Service-Above-Self record."

Over two hundred Rotarians and guests attended the District 9670 Changeover that was held at the Singleton Diggers Club alongside the Rotary Club of Singleton Changeover on Saturday 28th June 2014. Apart from a quality meal, great fellowship, the odd joke, it was an occasion to acknowledge the efforts of Brian and Madeleine Atkins and those numerous hardworking Rotarians who supported them to enable the smooth running of both the district and the district programs.

As we look forward to the Rotary District 9670 Changeover on Saturday 28th June 2014. District Governor Brian Atkins looks back over some of the achievements for the year. "I wish every Rotarian had the opportunity to see our District from where we have this year. The breadth and depth of projects across the district are diverse and exciting. The friendships we have forged along the way will always be remembered". With a District stretching right across the state from Newcastle all the way to Bourke the people are as different as the projects undertaken.

Asked to single out a highlights of the year was a challenge that was too hard given the incredible year. "It'll be a long time before we'll forget Charley stepping off the helicopter at the opening of the District Conference and running around".

The Rotary International Convention in Sydney on 1st June to 4th June 2014 is one of those experiences that are hard to encompass in only a few words and even a hundred images would only begin to describe the diversity of Rotary that was showcased at the Sydney Olympic Park.

Past District Governor Peter Raynor and the 2014 District 9670 International Convention Promotions chair shared his experience of the Sydney Convention.

Following selection interviews for the District Governor position over 2016—2017, District Governor Brian Atkins, advises District 9670 on the newest member to the G-Train, Steve Jackson from the Rotary Club of Cessnock who was elected as District Governor for 2016-2017. So how much do you know about Stephen...

Men's Health Education Rural Van (MHERV) is a purpose built trailer, towed by Rotary Volunteers throughout western NSW to perform Health Checks on Men who, usually through isolation, have little or no real chance to visit a Doctor. Ably assisted by Community Nurses from Greater Western Health Area Service, in September 2013 alone, 350 men visited MHERV for health tests.

Do you know a young person who will be in Year 8, 9 or 10 in 2015? Rotary Australia & New Zealand Student Exchange Chairperson Alison Tiananga, lets District 9670 in on the amazing opportunities this annual exchange program provides for our youth. Expressions of interest are closing fast so why not nominate someone you know for this life-changing program...

The Coal & Allied Singleton Art Prize is on again this year bigger and better than ever! Event Coordinator and member of the Rotary Club of Singleton on Hunter, David Gausden, updates District 9670 on this year’s annual event. This years event will also see judge, Terry Jarvis, running a an artist workshop over two days; the Hunter Region Sculptors holding a parallel exhibition; and a Jazz Concert on the same weekend—it will be like a mini artist festival! So why not get involved...

The second load of hay is scheduled to be delivered on Saturday May 17th. This delivery will be into the Lightning Ridge area. The response to the fundraising effort and was well supported by Rotary Clubs across the District and from our Rotary neighbours to the North.

What a conference District Governor Brian Atkins and his able committee achieved this year. We've included a snapshot below but to get the full feeling then follow this link. Rotary District 9670 Conference 2014

What could be better than circling the shores of Lake Macquarie? Mary O’Neil, from the Rotary Club of Warners Bay, updates District 9670 on the great success of the 2014 Loop the Lake event. Considered a fun day out for the local community, this is the 17th year that this event has been run and it is a great fundraiser for many worthy charities.

Left: Wheeling heaven. Local bike riders
enjoying a great Autumn morning out at
Loop the Lake 2014. Sponsored by the
Rotary Club of Warners Bay this event was
successfully run for its 17th year.

Saturday 5th April saw the first delivery of Hay to Farmers in the Coonamble area.

A couple of weeks ago the Rotary Club of Dubbo West setout to delivery two B-Double loads of Hay to farmers in need. To achieve this a fundraising target of $30,000 was set. Great support has been received from clubs across Rotary District 9670 and beyong. By Saturday enough money was raised to send the first load of hay on its way to Coonamble. Subsequent pledges have been received for half of the remaining truckload, leaving $6,000 required to get this next truck on the road.

Donations for the first load of Hay were received from the following Clubs.

IMPORTANT UPDATE REGARDING MARCHING BAND AND ENTERTAINMENT SPECTACULAR

There has been a change to the Marching Band and Entertainment Spectacular on Friday 28 March after Conference Chair PDG Ted Atchison met with Hunter Stadium Management. The inaugural Spectacular at the Hunter Stadium will be postponed for the general public.

The event will still continue for the Rotarians attending the opening night with Three marching bands performing on the arena, special performances by Catherine Britt, Hunter Singers, Star Struck Singers and Live Music in the Broadmeadow Room.

The Millennium March Band will no longer be performing.

So still a great night for Rotarians, but unfortunately not available to the public at this stage.

Rotary International (RI) President-Elect Gary CK Huang has announced his Presidential theme for 2014-15.

Huang announced the theme at a five-day training meeting, and encouraged members to "Light Up Rotary" in the coming year by hosting a Rotary Day and include your local Rotaract and Interact Clubs in this event and for all your service projects.

The 2013 Rotary International Convention has not long finished, but it is already time to think about next years Convention. It is going to be extra special as the Convention will be held in SYDNEY on June 1-4!!!

A great turn-out rolled up at the Charlestown Bowling Club to witness the installation of Brian Atkins as District Governor for 2013-14 and celebrate the year that outgoing District Governor Peter Raynor has had.

DISTRICT 9670 CHANGEOVER

All Rotarians are invited to attend the District 9670 Changeover, where we will celebrate the year that DG Peter Raynor and his wife Margaret have had, and welcome Brian Atkins and Madeleine into the role of District Governor for 2013 - 14.

BILL GATES

On Monday Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft, the world's richest individual and mega philanthropist gave an address to the National Press Club in the Great Hall of Parliament House on aid. When he got the area of overcoming disease he talked about his favourite project, the eradication of Polio and said the following about Rotary:

ANZAC DAY SERVICE

The recognition of Anzac Day by young people in our community is vitally important. The year 2015 is the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign and it is the objective of all the Melbourne and Victorian Rotary districts to have an annual students' Anzac Day service in every municipality in Victoria by Anzac Day 25th April 2015. In order to achieve this objective, it is important for some or all of the Rotary clubs within each municipality to get together to approach their local schools to explain the concept and invite their participation.

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE - 2013 LISBON 23RD - 26TH JUNE

District 9670 is located midway along the East coast of NSW, Australia. The district runs in a strip averaging 150 kilometres wide east-west across the state almost to the Queensland and South Australian borders. The principal city is Newcastle, with a city population of 500,000 people.

District 9670 is located midway along the East coast of NSW, Australia. The district runs in a strip averaging 150 kilometres wide east-west across the state almost to the Queensland and South Australian borders.

ShelterBox is responding to a magnitude 6.9 earthquake that has rocked Western China.

The earthquake struck the remote and mountainous Qinghai province near Tibet, one of China's poorest regions, killing at least 400 people and injuring 10,000. A series of aftershocks collapsed houses, schools and offices in the ethnic Tibetan county of Yushu, leaving survivors without shelter in freezing conditions.

The charity will be working to assess the areas of greatest need and has already mobilised one of its China based ShelterBox Response Team (SRT) members.

NONDUGAL (PNG) PRIMARY SCHOOL PROJECT

2013 - 2014 DISTRICT TRAINING AND TEAM BUILDING

In 2013-2014 all District Training will be under the guidance of our new Leadership and Development Coordinator (District Trainer) Wilma Simmons and her team Pam Wellham and Wendy Hawthorne with the support of 2012-2013 District Trainer Alex McHarg.

The following dates are important for the success of our exciting year ahead in following RI President Ron Burton’s theme of Engage Rotary - Change Lives.

Please note this is your opportunity to meet your new team for 2013-2014 and hear about the goals, innovations and vision for our District into the future.

FOUNDATION DINNER

2013 Eastern District 9670 Rotary Foundation Dinner is being held at West Mayfield on Industrial drive Mayfield on Tuesday 26th February. The Guest speaker will be Craig Hamilton, ABC Presenter and PHF Recipient “Why Life’s Challenges are a Gift”. There will also be ‘An Entertainment’

Starting time: 6:30 for 7:00 with a dinner cost of $35 per person. The event is being put on by the Rotary club of Newcastle Enterprise and the event sponsor being "The Greater Building Society"

COONABARABRAN BUSH FIRE SUPPORT

DUBBO'S four Rotary clubs are waiting to hear how they can help displaced and distraught residents of Coonabarabran pick up the pieces of their lives.

On behalf of the clubs, president of the Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie Peter English has made contact with president of the Rotary Club of Coonabarabran Hugh Raadgever, one of many forced to evacuate their properties because of the worst fire in NSW this summer.

Mr English has asked how best the Dubbo clubs can help Coonabarabran and district residents after the flames are put out, and emergency services and welfare agencies have left the town.

DISTRICT ON FACEBOOK

Ready for the start of a brand new year - the big 2013 - our district now has its own public Facebook page. This is a location to share what the district is up to, to share what your local Rotary club is up to with all our followers on Facebook. Thanks to Colin Shanks the newest member of the ECC and from the Rotary Club of Dubbo West.

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM DISTRICT GOVERNOR

As it is time for our Clubs “to take a break” – with that in mind, Margaret and myself would like to extend to all our best wishes for a safe holiday season, and may you all enjoy the warmth of loved ones at this time of the year. And as 2013 draws close may it bring success and good health for all. We would also like to take this opportunity to once again remind you of the District conference in March 2013 at Port Macquarie.

EFFECTIVE STORAGE OF CLUB & DISTRICT ELECTRONIC RECORDS - FACILITY NOW AVAILABLE

It is always a challenge within a Club or District Committee to keep track of records – who has them? where are they stored? how can they be accessed? A FREE solution is now available. The Electronic Communications Committee has been working with Rtn Chris Boswell and Strategic Group to make centralised electronic storage available to ALL District Clubs and District Committees. This will alleviate the need to pass records on from one person to the next and also to keep paper files. It is a very secure and easily accessible storage facility that can be accessed through internet access.

CHARTER NEW CLUB

Almost 300 hundred people attended the dinner on Monday night. It was a pleasure to see folk from Williamtown, Toronto Sunrise, Belmont, Kurri Kurri, East Maitland, Warners Bay, Waratah, Cessnock (apart from the DG), the Singleton Clubs, Murrurundi, and other Clubs, some much closer to Dubbo. The warmth of the fellowship was very evident, but the highlight of the evening was the address made by the President. It was inspirational, and gave us all a deeper insight into Rotary, its work, and his philosophies. He also expressed his gratitude in being able to experience Rotary outside the large metropolitan centres, and to gain a greater understanding of the work made and challenges faced by our members and Clubs.

Every aspect of the visit was so ably put together by PDG Don and Marjorie, and the very dedicated team of helpers. No detail was too small, and thus smooth organisation was a hallmark of the visit.

DIK DESPERATELY SEEKING STORAGE SPACE

Donations in Kind (DIK) has been active in our District for many years and are desperate for storage space in the Newcastle - Maitland area..

Individuals, public and private organisations donate amazing items to DIK to be redistributed for a 2nd life within our District, NSW and Overseas. While there is a storage facility in Sydney, this is often unable to accommodate the items that we have donated in this District. The District Coordinator of DIK, PDG Howard Grigor is searching for affordable storage space. Without storage space, offers of exceptional donated goods may have to be passed up meaning that our communities will miss out.

Do you know someone who has storage space that would be willing to donate, or offer for rent at an affordable cost? Please pass all information onto Howard who will be able to discuss the size and location most suitable. Email: hnlgrigor@bigpond.com

WORLD PRESIDENT TO VISIT DUBBO

Don’t miss the opportunity to meet and greet the World President of Rotary International Kalyan Banerjee in Dubbo on 21st May. This is the first time an International President has visited this district while in office. Kalyan is a great speaker and an inspiring leader.

Please complete the attached form to attend the dinner arranged in honour of the President.

WORLD PRESIDENT NEWS

World President, Kalyan Banerjee will be visiting Australia, more specifically, our District, and more precisely, he’ll be in Dubbo – only Dubbo! I’m sure that this would be a first for our western regions of the District, although Paul Harris visited Newcastle, but not as World President.

The all-important date: Monday, 21st May, and the exact details are yet to be worked out.

The fundraising milestone was reached in response to $355 million in challenge grants awarded to The Rotary Foundation by the Gates Foundation. All funds have been earmarked to support polio immunization activities in affected countries where the vaccine-preventable disease continues to paralyze children.

“In recognition of Rotary’s great work, and to inspire Rotarians in the future, the [Gates] foundation is committing an additional $50 million to extend our partnership,” said Jeff Raikes, chief executive officer of the Gates Foundation. “Rotary started the global fight against polio, and continues to set the tone for private fundraising, grassroots engagement, and maintaining polio at the top of the agenda with key policymakers.” Raikes also addressed Rotary leaders at the International Assembly.

The new $50 million grant from the Gates Foundation is not a challenge grant.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

All Rotarians and Partners travelling overseas to authorised Rotary events - for example the 2012 RI Convention in Bangkok - can avail themselves of insurance cover by the Rotary Personal Accident and Travel Insurance Policy - at no cost. The policy will cover you for the duration of the Rotary part of your trip, plus up to 60 days private travel, providing the overall duration of the trip - home to home - is not more than 90 days. Any pre-existing medical conditions will be covered, provided you obtain a letter from your GP saying that you are "fit to travel". "Medical and additional expenses" cover for persons up to 79 years of age is "unlimited". For Rotarians (and partners) 80 years of age or over, travelling to an Annual RI Convention, the benefits for "medical and additional expenses" is limited to $50,000.

The team of volunteers arrived back from PNG on very Early Saturday 26th after spending 10 days in the Wesrern Highlands. There will be a full report very soon in the mean time have a look at a video of there time in Nondugl. The planing is already started for the next trip which will be in March 2012. They are looking for a plumber to join the team to add warm showers to the teachers accommodation .

HV SECTION OF THE IFCR NEW ZEALAND TEAM TOUR NOVEMBER 2011

The Kiwis arrived at various times in Australia and officially united at the Sydney Cricket ground on 3rd November, 2011. They were met and welcomed by a delegation from the Hunter in Terry New, Trevor Holden and Bob Kerr. A tour of the Football Stadium, the SCG, lunch at Fox Studios and a quick drive through the CBD and then up the F3 to Maitland where the tourists were met by their hosts.

Friday 4th started with a Civic Reception by the Mayor of Maitland and a Past President and current member of Rutherford Telarah Rotary, Peter Blackmore. Mayor Peter also presented the tourists with gifts, which was greatly appreciated.

YEP ORIENTATION WEEKEND

RYPEN CAMP OCTOBER

RYPEN camps are generally held twice a year around April and October at the Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre in Lake Macquarie. The local Rotary club, Toronto, takes all responsibility for ensuring everyone is well fed over the weekend. We ask the local Rotary clubs to interact with the schools and members to nominate teens in their area to participate. The cost of $199 per participant is generally covered by the Rotary club nominating or in the area where then teen has come from. This includes all costs for the weekend, transport to feeding, all we ask is for the participant is their time and willingness.

The October Camp is fast approaching so any kids between the ages of 14 & 17 be sure to speak to your local Rotary Club or school to find out more. CLICK HERE

LOCAL TOURS

SHEEP AND CATTLE FARM TOUR – SATURDAY 17 MARCHWarren Shire has many famous sheep studs that trace back to the birth of the wool industry in Australia and have helped shape the industry to what it is today.

Many jackaroos and jillaroos have developed their career in agriculture around Warren in an Australian bush environment characterised by mateship. Your tour of Haddon Rig and Egelabra allows you to experience life on a working sheep and cattle property. See the stock, visit an historic woolshed and the view the beautiful countryside.

TIGER BAY WETLANDS
Close to town is the Tiger Bay Wetlands. The park is a natural overflow of the Macquarie River system and is home to many species of birds and aquatic flora. A walkway along the levee with binoculars is a must for any interested bird watchers.

REGISTER 4

Recently we had an inspiring speaker (Yvonne Jex) at our Club (Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie Inc) who is an Ambassador for Register 4 – a brochure is attached to set the scene (see also an extract from our Bulletin below). She is a cancer survivor herself and is trying to get people (not just women as the pamphlet suggests) to join this organisation.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY SUPPORTS HEALTH & EDUCATION IN PNG

East Maitland Rotary Club will hold a Xmas in July fundraising luncheon Sunday 31st July to support improvements in health and education in the village of Nondugl, Western Highlands, Papua New Guinea. [ More Details here]

GROUP STUDY EXCHANGE TO D1460

The Danish part of Rotary District 1460 marked with red.

This is where we are going next year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! as well as travelling to Vilnius in Lithuania as part of the District.

A reminder to all clubs to encourage young business people in your area to apply for this excellent opportunity to expand their vocational knowledge, experience a new culture and travel with a group of like minded people.

THE FIRST DISTRICT 9670 E-CLUB IS ON THE WAY!

EAST MAITLAND ROTARY 50TH

The Rotary Club of East Maitland is celebrating the club‘s 50th Anniversary at a celebration luncheon to be held at the East Maitland Bowling Club in Banks Street, East Maitland, on Sunday, 12 th June, 2011 at 12 Noon.

CELEBRATION OF 90 YEARS OF ROTARY IN AUSTRALIA

2011 marks the 90th year anniversary of Rotary in Australia and the Rotary Club of Melbourne. Australia’s first Rotary Club invites its members and other Rotarians to a Gala Dinner to celebrate this occasion in the presence of Her Excellency, Ms. Quentin Bryce AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia.

I feel that it is important that we as a nation acknowledge in a formal way the work of the current 37,000 Australian Rotary volunteers, both male and female, from the 1202 Clubs in Australia to mark 90 years of service. It is my responsibility, being the President of the founding Club in Australia, to host this event.

AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH CHARITY GOLF DAY

KEN SCHELLER AWARD - HONOURABLE MENTION - GEOFF SMITH

The Ken Scheller Award committee has given an "Honourable Mention" recognition to Geoff Smith from The Rotary Club of Narromine for contribution to "Rotary Down Under" in the February 2010 - "From a dump to Narromine Wetlands"

DO MY SOLAR

GALA GOLF DAY

31ST October 2010

DISTRICT CONFERENCE 2011 DUBBO

Don, Majorie & the members of the 2011 Conference Committee invite all Rotarians in District 9670 to join with them in Dubbo on the weekend of 18th 19th & 20th March 2011 to celebrate Rotary’s achievements in the local and International community.

Don has chosen ‘The Spirit of The Bush’ as the theme for the conference to convey the message of the real happiness and joy we derive from fellowship, amongst like minded people as we commit to ‘Building Communities Bridging Continents’.

Rotary International is the world's first service club organization, with more than 1.2 million members in 33,000 clubs worldwide. Rotary club members are volunteers who work locally, regionally, and internationally to combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, provide education and job training, promote peace, and eradicate polio under the motto Service Above Self.